BCB draws hope from Paris attack after England tour is put on hold

Dhaka, July 4 (IANS) After the dastardly attack on a city cafe placed England’s visit in the balance, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is drawing hope from last November’s Paris terror incident.

France is currently hosting the European Championship barely seven months after the country witnessed a series of coordinated terrorist attacks on November 13.

BCB President Nazmul Hassan has promised the highest level of security for the England team who are scheduled to visit Bangladesh for a five-week tour beginning September 30.

After the Friday night attack on the cafe in Gulshan 2, which escalated into an unprecedented hostage crisis, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said it would take its time to assess the situation in Bangladesh over the coming weeks and months.

The ECB said it would follow government instructions with regard to the tour.

Hassan condemned the attack, which left at least 22 people dead, on his return from the International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting in Scotland on Sunday.

“This is an extremely unfortunate event for Bangladesh. There is no way cricket can escape its consequences,” Hassan was quoted as saying by bdnews24.com on Monday.

“I don’t have the words to express condolences on behalf of the board. It’s unimaginable that something like this can happen in Bangladesh. I still can’t believe it.

“I have seen the reaction from England — it is natural. If I was in their position, I would’ve done the same.”

The attacks in France last November included suicide bombings near the Stade de France in Saint-Denis and mass shootings in cafes, restaurants and a music venue in central Paris.

“There are two very important issues here. You can see, although Paris came under attack the games weren’t put off. I believe sport will move on in its own pace,” Hassan said.

“Besides that, we have three months in hand for the England series. The situation will not stay the same over this period.

“Whatever the situation, I have always said we have to strengthen our security system. If we can ensure the highest security, sport won’t be held up in any country.”